How does a salt bridge work in an electrochemical cell?

Here’s a explanation:

A salt bridge is a tube or strip containing a salt solution (like KCl or KNO₃) that connects the two half-cells of an electrochemical cell.

What it does:

1. Completes the circuit: Allows ions to flow so the reaction can keep going.
2. Maintains charge balance:
   • In the anode (where oxidation happens), positive ions build up.
   • In the cathode (where reduction happens), negative ions build up.
   • The salt bridge lets ions move to neutralize these charges, so the cell doesn’t stop.

How it works:

• Anions from the salt bridge move toward the anode.
• Cations from the salt bridge move toward the cathode.

Simple way to remember:

The salt bridge is like a traffic bridge for ions, keeping the flow of electricity smooth.